
Do you need to learn how to obtain a vehicle registration plate in Dubai? The easy way is: you can do it with ease with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website, be it a new car, used, or custom plates, or a replacement.
I am Laura, and I have been through this process. I initially assumed it was going to be a complex process, ss, but when I rode in the RTA system, I knew just how easy it is. This is why I am talking to you now, so that you can gain knowledge about my experience and follow step by step.
Here in this blog, I will outline all the means of achieving a number plate in Dubai:
- Obtaining a number plate for a new car.
- Obtaining a number plate for a used car.
- Application of a special or custom number plate.
- Ask to be supplied with a new plate in case it is lost or broken.
For a Brand-New Car in Dubai (Via RTA Website)
When you have recently purchased a new vehicle in Dubai, you have to register the vehicle and receive your number plate at the RTA. Here’s how I did it:
Step 1: Visit the RTA Official Website
- Go to the RTA website.
- Select the language, either English or Arabic.

Step 2: Log In Using UAE Pass or RTA Account
- Log in using your UAE Pass or your RTA account.

Step 3: Select Vehicle Services
- Click on Vehicles

- Then Vehicle License Plates.

Step 4: Apply for Purchasing a Plate Number
- Choose: Buy Special Plate Number.
- Fill in car information (brand, model, and year).

Step 5: Pay Fees Online
- Registration and issuance fees are different according to the plate category.
- Pay by debit or credit card.
Step 6: Confirm & Submit
- Check everything twice and send.
- When approved, your number plate will be done, and it will be ready to be collected.
For a Used Car in Dubai (Ownership Transfer)
In the case of a used car purchase in Dubai, you will be required to hand over the ownership and the number plate of the seller.
Step 1: Visit the RTA Website and Log In
- Go to the official RTA website and log in with UAE Pass.
Step 2: Apply for a Transferred Plate Number
- Go to RTA services
- Select Vehicles
- Vehicle Licence Plates.
- In the menu, press Apply for Transferring a Vehicle Plate Number.

Step 3: Pay the Transfer and Plate Fees
- The charges will be based on the plate.
- Make your payment online
Step 4: Confirm & Submit
- Check all the details entered.
- Send and pay the transfer–your new title under your name will be registered.
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For a Special or Custom Number Plate in Dubai
Among the best things about living in Dubai is the opportunity to obtain a special or custom number plate. These plates may put your car in the limelight and even gain prestige.
Step 1: Log In to the RTA Website
- Go to the RTA website
- Log in with your UAE Pass.
Step 2: Access the Special Number Plate Section
- Go to Vehicles
- Select Special Plate Numbers.

Step 3: Browse or Search
- You may move with available numbers, or you may search for a number.
- In case of rare plates (one or two digits), you might have to become a member of an RTA auction online.
Step 4: Reserve Your Plate
- In case you want to order a plate, make a reservation online.
Step 5: Pay the Fees
- The costs of plates differ with their rarity and uniqueness.
- Complete the payment online.
Step 6: Confirmation & Issuance
- A personalized number plate will be reproduced in your name once approved.
Tip from me: Dubai custom plates are not a luxury only, it is an investment. Numerous plates are made more valuable and can be resold in the future.
Replace a Lost or Damaged Number Plate in Dubai
It happens that you misplaced your number plate or got it damaged; nothing to fret about. The RTA is simple to replace online.
Step 1: Visit the RTA Website and Log In
- Go to the RTA official website
- Log in with your UAE Pass.
Step 2: Select Replacement Service
- Go to Vehicles
- Number Plates
- Change the Missing or Broken Plate.

Step 3: Enter Your Vehicle Details
- Give your car information and the reason (lost or damaged).
Step 4: Pay Replacement Fee
- The fees are low in contrast to new or custom plates.
- Pay directly online.
Step 5: Submit Request
- When you submit your request will be processed by RTA.
- You will be informed when the substitute plate is prepared.

FAQs
1. What price is a number plate in Dubai?
Ordinary plates range from a few hundred dirhams, whereas special/custom plates may go well into the thousands or more, based on scarcity.
2. What is the way to change a number plate in Dubai?
Go to the RTA site and in the options that appear, select the option of replacing a lost or damaged plate, input your car information, pay the charges, and provide online.
3. How much is the 7777 plate in Dubai?
The 7777 plate is a high-quality number, which is estimated in thousands of dirhams, and is commonly auctioned at premium prices in RTA.
4. What would happen in the case I lost my Dubai number plate?
In order to replace the loss, one can apply by paying the replacement fee to RTA through the RTA website by reporting the loss to Dubai Police.
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Final Thoughts
Dubai has an RTA, which is easy to use to get a number plate. It is a quick, secure, and all-online process, whether it is a new car, used car (transfer of ownership), custom plate, or a replacement. I have lived through it, and I am sure that you can go through it with ease as well.

